THE MINDFUL BINGE

Netflix “Painkiller”: A Tale of Reality and Fiction VS. Hulu “Dopesick”

“Painkiller,” a fictionalized telling of real events, explores some of the origins and aftermath of the opioid crisis in America, highlighting the stories of perpetrators, victims, and truth-seekers whose lives are forever altered by the invention of OxyContin.

In an era where storytelling has the power to shed light on critical societal issues, Netflix’s new TV series, “Painkiller,” emerges as a poignant and captivating narrative that delves into the heart of the opioid crisis in America. Seamlessly blending fact and fiction, this show offers viewers an intimate look at the origins and aftermath of one of the most devastating health crises in recent history.

#QUITLIT

“We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life” by Laura McKowen

As someone with long-term recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders, reading Laura McKowen’s ‘We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life’ felt like an intimate heart-to-heart with a dear friend who truly understands the journey. McKowen’s book is not just a memoir and how-to — it’s a raw, honest and profound exploration of life in sobriety.

The title itself, ‘We Are the Luckiest,’ powerfully asserts that sobriety isn’t a punishment — it’s a gift. As I turned each page, I found myself nodding enthusiastically in agreement. Yes, we are indeed the luckiest. Recovery isn’t just about abstaining from substances; it’s about discovering who we truly are beneath the haze of drugs and alcohol.

HAPPY EVERY HOUR

A Toast to TÖST: The Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Beverage Redefining Sophistication

In the ever-evolving world of non-alcoholic beverages, TÖST has carved out a space that feels celebratory without the buzz. Their sparkling drinks — crafted from white tea, ginger, white cranberry and elderberry — promise a sophisticated alternative to traditional sparkling wines, and they essentially deliver, with just enough panache to make teetotaling feel like an indulgence rather than a compromise.

CURATED CRAFTS

Curated Crafts: Women Who Rock Cross-Stitch — Amy Winehouse

Are you feeling anxious? Does all this excess energy create the need to keep your hands busy? Looking at my nail-bitten cuticles, I need to immerse myself in a project that doesn’t involve the news or any screens. And, although I would never consider myself an artist, I love to craft. And no one, I do mean no one, Pinterest fails quite as well as I do! (Especially if baking and cooking are involved, those are stories for another time.)

This is precisely why I decided to take on my first pattern from my “Women Who Rock Cross-Stitch Book” and create my own Amy Winehouse Tribute. My home décor style is currently overly girlie, eclectic and honestly a bit too much. Anyone walking into my home for the first time will usually stop dead near the front door and Joey Lawrence out a “WOAH.” It includes a sign that says, “It’s not hoarding if your stuff is cool.” Trust me when I tell you my stuff is cool. At least, to me, it is. My 27-year-old son, aka “the roommate,” may have different thoughts.

#ADDTOCART

The Recovery Magic 8 Ball — The Perfect Gift For That Special Sober Someone

If you’ve been searching for a unique, thoughtful gift for someone in recovery, we present to you The Recovery Magic 8 Ball. This isn’t just an ordinary toy — it’s a blend of humor, encouragement and sincerity, tailor-made to support anyone navigating the path to sobriety.

Whether your loved one is rocking their 90-day chip, celebrating their 10th anniversary or simply showing up and working the program, this playful yet meaningful gift could be the unexpected gem that makes their day.